Bowling Green, Lichfield

Large Ember Inn now in the middle of a large gyratory but still with the eponymous sporting facility behind. Usual semi-modern furniture and decor throughout this much-extended old building, but no real character left inside. Disappointingly, the wait for food orders on a Wednesday evening was advised as 40 minutes so I didn't bother, but at least they told me in advance I suppose... Ember pale ale, Pedigree, Wainwright, Butcombe Plough On winter ale (£3.35, and in good form) and Old Rosie cider available from the two banks of five handpumps.

Oh! Lord. Ember Inn, so pretty soulless. A huge pub and eatery on a major roard island. Fake timber look and modern interior - plain walls in different colours. The clientele were mixed. I was forced outside by the fact that three footy fans (Liverpool, Arsenal and Man Utd - so all local then!) were oblivious to their shouts at the Sky Sports News TV debating over £40m for this, or that player. Lots of tot, sunning themselves, improved the view of the cars going around the island. The bar staff were fine. Usual taps, with London Pride, Banks's MILD and 6X on handpull. MILD was fine. Would only go for the beer and i can get the same stuff elsewhere, so i will.

Official site of the Bowling Green, includes menus and real ale list - www.emberinns.co.uk

Official site of the Bowling Green, includes menus and real ale list - www.emberinns.co.uk